Everything we know about the new Suzuki Baleno
The Suzuki Baleno has been given a fresh face and a bunch of new features. This has bolstered the vehicle's value proposition even more here in South Africa. We attended a special unveiling of this newcomer and here is what you need to know.
When launched back in 2015 the Baleno welcomed a new design language into the Suzuki stable. This new model has built upon that design philosophy (Crafted Futurism) that we have come to appreciate. The new Baleno looks more modern in its visual appeal thanks to a mix of organic and dynamic lines, large and striking lights and a purposeful stance. Other visual elements that caught our eye are the wider front air intake, the new three-dimensional grille design and the flow of the body lines and brightwork in one continuous swoop, are not only new, but a sign of designs to come.
What we feel is the biggest improvement can be found on the interior. The new Baleno offers a real upmarket look and feel thanks to an new and improved 9” infotainment system which benefits from features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a new interface with a high degree of customisation. There is even a Head’s Up Display. This luxury, previously unheard of in this segment, features a full colour display of a host of vehicle features, including speed, temperature and other vehicle warning symbols. This, too, is standard on the new GLX model.
Like before, the GLX features luxuries and safety equipment like 6 airbags, LED daytime running lights, LED projector headlights, keyless entry and a push-button start and dual-colour 16” alloy wheels.
Under the bonnet is the K15B engine, which replaces the K14B engine and increases the engine volume from 1.4 litres to 1.5 litres. The new engine delivers 77 kW (9 kW more than before) and 138 Nm of torque (an improvement of 8 Nm). The vehicle weighs in at less than a tonne (955 kg) for a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 81 kW per tonne. Suzuki has not only tweaked the engine. The suspension, steering and drivetrain have been improved to offer a more engaging ride, and the patented TECT safety shell and platform are now even more rigid, thanks to more high-tensile steel.
Suzuki’s global head office in Japan has confirmed the start of vehicle production for the South African Suzuki Baleno in April, with first customer deliveries scheduled for around June 2022. We will bring you more details soon.
Also worth a look: the Suzuki Swift and the Suzuki Starts 2025 with Record-Breaking Sales in South Afric.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2022 Suzuki Baleno cost in South Africa?
The 2022 Suzuki Baleno GLX is priced from R341,800 in South Africa, making it one of the most affordable hatchbacks in its segment with premium features like a 9-inch infotainment system and Head's Up Display.
Q: Is the 2022 Suzuki Baleno worth buying?
Yes, the 2022 Baleno is absolutely worth buying if you want premium features at an affordable price, with its upgraded 1.5-litre engine producing 77 kW, excellent fuel economy, and luxury touches like Apple CarPlay and LED headlights that punch well above its weight class.
Q: What engine does the 2022 Suzuki Baleno have?
The 2022 Baleno features a new K15B 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine that produces 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque, replacing the previous 1.4-litre unit and delivering improved performance with a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 81 kW per tonne.
Q: What are the main differences between the old and new Suzuki Baleno?
The 2022 Baleno gets a larger 1.5-litre engine (up from 1.4-litre), a new 9-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Head's Up Display, updated exterior styling with a three-dimensional grille, and an upmarket interior whilst maintaining the same affordable pricing structure.
Q: Does the 2022 Suzuki Baleno have good safety features?
Yes, the Baleno GLX comes standard with 6 airbags, LED projector headlights with daytime running lights, keyless entry with push-button start, and weighs under a tonne for excellent crash safety, making it one of the safest cars in the sub-R350,000 price bracket.
Should You Buy It?
The best premium hatchback under R350,000 in South Africa is definitely the 2022 Suzuki Baleno GLX at R341,800. This is a resounding yes from us, the Baleno delivers luxury car features like a Head's Up Display, 9-inch touchscreen, and LED headlights at a price that most competitors can't match. The new 1.5-litre engine's 77 kW output gives it proper pep, whilst the sub-tonne weight means it's nippy around town and sips fuel like a responsible adult at a wedding. If you're shopping for a practical hatchback that doesn't feel cheap inside and won't break the bank, the Baleno should be top of your list, it's genuinely impressive how much car Suzuki gives you for the money.
